the handshake - july 2012 - issue 14

June 2012 - Issue 14

www.biznetwales.co.uk

IN A FAMILY SPIN

The official magazine of

PDR:The secrets behind product prototyping and testing

Ciotek’s Jayne Smith talks about dating and business

ALSO //

Plus Technology reviews, book and film reviews and much more

Behind the scenes at a busy Bridgend launderette

AND //

Advertising: Lynne Orton - A limited amount of advertising will be available in future issues

All enquiries: www.biznetwales.co.ukTel: 01639 793580

Issue number 12

The Handshake is the official magazine of The Business Network and is published electronically every 3 months.

Copies are sent to all Business Network members and other selected individuals within the business community. To request a regular copy email: [email protected]

Publ ished by:

Design & E-book creation:Gwilym [email protected]

Proofreader:Susi [email protected]

Cover art icle photography:Samantha [email protected]

C R E D I T S

Editor:Huw [email protected]

#3w w w . b i z n e t w a l e s . c o . u k

Well, it seems ages since I last wrote a foreword for the Handshake; it’s only a couple of months but so much has happened! Where do I start?

Ah yes, I mentioned last time about the launch of our Rise & Shine breakfast networking events; well, the launch was on 1st March at the Liberty Stadium and it was fantastic!! Now, that’s not just me saying it, everyone who was there thoroughly enjoyed it and you can see some of the photos on our website or Facebook page. We now hold fortnightly Rise & Shine meetings in Swansea (Liberty Stadium), Bridgend (Heronston Hotel) and Heads of the Valleys (Nant Ddu Lodge Merthyr) but watch this space for announcements about future areas.

The launch of the breakfast meetings has had a knock-on effect at our monthly lunchtime networking groups too, with the introduction of lots of new members, some of whom are listed later in the magazine.

As well as the breakfast meetings, the other major event was our annual Business 2 Business Exhibition and Meet the Buyer event which was, once again, held at Parc y Scarlets, Llanelli. The feedback from the exhibition was brilliant and, again, there were lots and lots of photos taken (what is it with people and cameras these days??). We also have a video of the day, which illustrates how much everyone enjoyed themselves……so much so that we are already planning our next one in Cardiff for later this year.

But that’s enough about The Business Network – how are things with you? Is your business enjoying a bit of an up-turn? I ask because many of our members tell me things are really starting to pick up for them, which is fantastic news. Later in the magazine you will see features on two of our members where they have had really good fortune – one winning a prestigious award, the other serving lunch to the Queen!!

If you are a member of The Business Network and would like to make a special announcement / write an article to reach lots of people (over 10,000 on our database at the last count), then please send details for us to include in the next issue. If, however, you are not yet a member of The Business Network, then go to the diary page, book yourself on to one of our events, come along and try us and when you become a member you too will have the opportunity of this fantastic free publicity.

The next time I write to you it will be the start of the autumn (I know it’s not a nice thought when we haven’t really had much sunshine yet), you will have had your summer holiday and will be suitably refreshed and looking forward to implementing all those `how to grow your business’ ideas you thought of while lying on the beach or drinking by the pool ☺

Have a great summer!

L Y N N E ’ SF O R E W O R D

C O V E R S T O R Y / /

IN AFAMILYSPINP A G E S / /

# 4 - 6F E A T U R E / /

PDRAn Eye for Design

P A G E S / /

# 12 - 13F E A T U R E / /

A DATE WITHJAYNE

P A G E S / /

#31O T H E R A R T I C L E S / /

JUST A THOUGHT:By Beverly Jones

BOOK REVIEW:By Susi Cernoch

DOING ITONLINEBy Natalie Reynolds

DARWIN’S LAW:By Stephen Thompson

GIZMOS ETC:By James Daniel

TAX UPDATE:Energy

HR BITES:By Clare Bowen

NEW MEMBERS

EYE ON THE BALLAndy Wilkins

RECIPEPotato Hash

FILM REVIEWBy Jo Popham

TONY ON TECHBy Anthony Worsley

WORK PLACESICKIES

BIZ Bites

THE BUSINESS NETWORK EXPO

RENEWED MEMBERS

DIARY DATES

#7

#7

#8-9

#10

#11

#14

#15

#16-25

#26

#27

#28

#29

#30

#32-33

#34-35

#36-37

#38-39

#4 w w w . b i z n e t w a l e s . c o . u k

...his father had seen a laundry business in Briton Ferry which was doing well and that was what had made him want to start a family laundry business.

Cover article photography by Samantha Cox ofStudio 86 Photography

Like what you see? Contact: [email protected]

By Huw Johns

IN A FAMILYSPIN


Norman is an established business owner, having run the Dynorod franchise in Cardiff for many years. Son Steve, 41, and daughter Karen, 47, already had careers in their own right, too. Steve followed his leisure management degree with stints at Asda as a Customer Care manager and IKEA as Front of House Manager whilst Karen worked for an insurance company for over 20 years.

“ Mind you, she still can’t use a computer! ”

huffs Steve, with a touch of brotherly bitterness.

“ And it’s a good job we don’t have chip and pin ‘cause she can’t use a cashpoint either! ”

he jokes.

I’m meeting Steve for coffee to talk about the Bridgend-based Laundry business, “In a Spin Laundry”. In a Spin only joined The Business Network in March 2012, so this is one of our first encounters. He tells me that his father had seen a laundry business in Briton Ferry which was doing well and that was what had made him want to start a family laundry business. Norman had wisely kept a 2 % share and allocated 49% to Steve and 49% to Karen. Their other sister, Julie, also joined the company last year as a driver and Saturday store manager.

In a Spin is a domestic and commercial laundry. As well as washing, drying, dry cleaning and ironing for the general public, they handle commercial contracts for hotels, restaurants, the police – and even horse owners (cleaning rugs, not horses !).Steve tells me that he and Karen don’t get on. The work gets done and the customers are happy, but there’s a touch of Fawlty Towers friction about the place.

“ We’re just different, ”

he says, referring to his relationship with his sister. But I sense he’s trying to be polite. Then he loses the battle with politeness in true Basil Fawlty style and blurts out

“ I do most of the work! It’s me that has to get the contracts in and manages the customers. Karen just does some laundry work! It’s not equal! ”

I diplomatically suggest that Karen may be more useful than Steve thinks. He retorts:

“Yes, she does have her uses. Oddly, she has absolutely no sense of smell, so if we get particularly pungent laundry bags coming in, then she handles them!”

He smiles, and I realise that all this is a bit of light-hearted banter that goes hand in hand with family businesses.

“ Our customers are always happy – we make sure of that. ”

says Steve.

He tells me that they once had a problem with someone who asked them to wash so-called Hugo Boss jeans and then complained when the colour ran. The firm gave a refund and compensation. However, after a little investigation, it became apparent that they were not in fact proper Hugo Boss jeans, but copies bought in a market for £10.

When Norman Jenkins came up with the idea of starting a laundry business with his family six years ago, he couldn’t have predicted that it would become affectionately known for the legendary bickering abetween his son and daughters.


So nowadays anything that looks like a copy is treated with caution, as it could prove an expensive liability in the future.

“ That’s it, ”

says Steve.

“ We’re just a hard-working family laundry business. ”

He pauses and laughs, before adding,

“ It’s just that I’m the only hard-working one! ”

I ask him if they have any famous customers and he tells me in a matter of fact way (that implied he wouldn’t have told me had I not asked) that they clean Howard Marks’ shirts. For the uninitiated, Howard Marks is a legendary dope-smoking storyteller, who has packed out theatres countrywide and also recently starred alongside Rhys Ifans in the movie, “Mr Nice”.

“I suppose his shirts have to smell extra good?” I suggest, referring to the need to remove the odour of illegal substances.

“ I suppose so, ”

says Steve, refusing to be drawn on the subject and demonstrating his commitment to customer confidentiality.

“Oh,” I say, hoping for more, but not getting it.

“ Time to make a move! ”

says Steve suddenly, looking at his watch.

“ Someone’s got to keep that business ticking over! ”

he adds with a grin.

You can find out more about In a Spin Laundry at www.inaspinlaundry.co.uk

Cover article photography by Samantha Cox ofStudio 86 Photography

Like what you see? Contact: [email protected]


Article by:

Beverley Jones

As we approach the warm months and lighter days of summer, take time to look back on what you have achieved since 2012 began. Rejoice and celebrate your successes and look at how you can build on these in the remaining months of the year.

We have a number of bank holidays over the next couple of months; what are your plans for these days? Do you go with the flow, or do you plan ahead? What it is you are going to do with the extra days off?

In the village where I live plans are in place for the yearly Music Festival

and the plans for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee street party are well under way.

I think this month we should join with our friends, family and communities to celebrate any event we can. Be grateful for everything you are fortunate enough to have, turn off your TV for the day so you don’t pick up any negative energy, and stand positively whilst you enjoy the fun, laughter and love of spending time with others.

GO OUTANDJUSTCELEBRATE!

Normally sceptical of gushing press reviews on book covers, in this case I have to admit they are all totally justified. The Times Literary Supplement describes this novel as ‘a love story with the grip and suspense of a thriller’, and I couldn’t have put it better.

The narrator Leo is an art historian and writer, aesthete and intellectual, l iving in a trendy part of New York. He buys a painting by Bill Wechsler and a long relationship begins between the two men and their wives. They become neighbours, friends and colleagues, have sons at the same time and develop their careers, while their relationships intertwine.

Leo is gentle, loyal and kind, and the characters in his story are honestly but affectionately drawn. He tends to give rather than take, and this proves to be his Achilles’ heel. Ultimately, though, he is generally happy, or at least content.

Then a death occurs that changes everything and all the characters are affected irrevocably. At this point, the novel shifts from being a quiet study of educated people and their lives to a sinister tale of suspicion and mistrust, and ultimately becomes a race against the clock to track down a madman before he can do any more harm. Interestingly, this shift doesn’t feel contrived or unlikely because the build up has been well paced and carefully constructed.

Admittedly, this book isn’t a light read, but it is so beautifully crafted that it is well worth reading and I’m very glad I

stumbled upon it. It tackles many everyday issues from love and betrayal to grief and loss, and even how madness has been perceived through the ages, and how diagnoses and treatments for mental illness have changed.

Marriage, friendship, parenthood, nostalgia and aging are also examined, each concept intelligently and sensitively treated with genuine interest and given its due respect.

The ending is bittersweet. Leo has grown old and is alone. He has lost a great deal but he has also loved deeply and sincerely. By that definition you could say that his life has truly been lived.

You don’t need an interest in art to appreciate this book, just a quiet room and a bit of time. When you’re done, let me know what you think!

SUSI’S BOOK REVIEWWhat I loved - Sir i Huvstedt


1. Trip Advisor

This is one of the first places people are selecting to leave their reviews, and it’s not just for hotels. Restaurants, attractions and holiday rentals are also featured on here. Have a good read of the reviews. Not all negative reviews will be relevant to your stay and there maybe the odd unfortunate one-off occurrence.

Always look at the bigger picture and see if the company have made an effort to respond to

the not-so-great comments; this will give you a good idea to their commitment to good service. (And check out one of our members, ‘Cwmshon Cottages’, who have excellent reviews!)

As we’re approaching the holiday season many of us will be avidly searching the internet for places to stay, restaurants to eat at and things to do. As I said in the last article I wasn’t claiming to be a love doctor, and this time I’m not claiming to be a seasoned traveller but what I will share with you is how you should be using the internet to scope out the best places to visit, both here in the UK and abroad. With so many of us expressing our opinions online, posting our photos and asking our friends for recommendations, no ‘Fawlty Toweresque’ place is safe these days, so don’t take the reviews on a venue’s website as a true reflection... They are obviously going to pick the best ones they’ve received!! And who is to say they haven’t been made up?!

D o i n g i t O n l i n e

How to avoid ‘Fawlty Toweresque’ holidays from hell!

Article by:

Natalie Reynolds

So here are the best ways to find the best places:


Found Wanting – Robert Goddard

2. Google Places

When you search for places using Google you’ll probably notice a Google map will appear. Users are able to leave reviews on these listings too. I know I’ve used this a few times for non tourism businesses too; it’s a great place to have a good old rant about poor service! Yell.com also has a similar feature, and watch out for reviews on forums and other websites when searching for the hotel you’re planning to book.

3. Twitter

Do a quick search to see what people are saying, or ask your followers for recommendations. You don’t have to be on Twitter to do searches – just type in ‘Twitter Search’ to Google and it will let you search across the whole website. I’d recommend getting signing up to Twitter yourself – but I would wouldn’t I!

4. Facebook

Ask your friends, family and colleagues for recommendations. Be careful - they may sometimes be biased so get a few opinions. Facebook pages are likely to only contain positive recommendations, and whilst this is great for the business, it may not give a true reflection.

Some other sites you might want to check out include: Yell.com, Yelp and Foursquare.

These are websites with business listings containing reviews, recommendations and tips for the businesses where people are openly expressing their opinions.

These days there is no hiding place for businesses with poor service and products!

And for those businesses reading this that may be listed on any of these sites above – always beware of the customers with mobile phones! These are the most likely to be shouting about your business online!


Q:

Q: If a director makes derogatory remarks to an employee about their age and ability, it can potentially lead to an age discrimination case, according to a recent decision of the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT).

In the recent case of James v Gina Shoes Ltd and others (UKEAT/0384/11), the employee was involved in a performance management process and the negative comments he received from his employer ultimately resulted in his constructive dismissal.

The employee was employed by the Respondent as a production manager at a shoe factory. The Respondent had found that the employee’s performance levels were not up to scratch and he informed the employee of this.

As a result of the subsequent stress he suffered, the employee took sick leave. When he attended a meeting with his employer the following week, the managing director asked him whether his poor performance at work was perhaps due to his age and mentioned that if the employee had been younger then training could have been provided.

As a result of the managing director’s remarks, the employee resigned from his job and brought claims for constructive unfair dismissal and age discrimination.

The tribunal upheld the unfair dismissal claim because it was clear that there had been a breach of trust and confidence.However, there was a lack of evidence to support a discrimination case and the tribunal considered it was probable that the managing director’s comments had been ‘taken out of context’.

Accordingly, no prima facie case of discrimination was established and the employer was not asked to offer any proof to support this.

On appeal, the EAT overturned the decision relating to the discrimination and found that the remarks made by the managing director were enough to establish a prima facie case. As a result, the matter was sent back to the tribunal to be heard again.

As a result of the finding in this case, it is important for employers to remember that ageist (or other discriminatory) comments by a manager/director may well give rise to a prima facie case of discrimination and subsequently, in the event of a claim by the employee, the burden of proof will pass to the employer to prove that the remarks were not discriminatory.

This highlights the need for employers to keep a clear record showing the reasons behind and procedure undertaken when carrying out a certain course of action (in this case dealing with an older employee), thus helping to prove that no discrimination took place.

The case should encourage employers to provide training on discrimination laws to all employees, including managers, to avoid derogatory remarks being made and potential employment claims resulting.

This article is meant to provide general guidance only and is not intended to be a substitute for proper legal advice.

“ This highlights the need for employers to keep a clear record showing the reasons behind and procedure undertaken when carrying out a certain course of action ”

Can ageist remarks lead to discrimination claims?

D A R W I N ' S L A WThe Handshake’s legal expert Stephen Thompson of Darwin Gray answersa frequently asked legal question.


Imagine for a moment that you own a shop...and everyone who walks through the door wears a paper bag over their head! So unless they decide to come to the till and identify themselves, you’ve got no chance of forging any kind of connection.

And when they’ve turned round and left the shop, you might never see them again.

That’s pretty much what’s happening on your website every day. You jump through a squidillion hoops to haul the visitor in, but they can scurry off anonymously without so much as a ‘bye for now.

If that’s a big problem for you, Lead Forensics could become your favourite new toy.

Lead Forensics is about lifting the visitor’s hood, telling you who’s been to what page and when, so you can follow up and grab a vital second bite of the cherry.

All sounds a bit Big Bro, I know, but it’s not that sinister. It can’t expose domestic visitors browsing from home PCs but if you sell B2B, it can trace your visitors’ IP addresses and link them to company details like site location, web address and phone number. Nifty little trick.

When you log in to Lead Forensics, it’s all there in front of you. Someone at Company X searched for such and such at 10am on Monday. They found your site, clicked on 3 pages, stayed for 8 minutes and then left.

Now you’ve got some intel. You know that this company is snooping around, and what they’re interested in - so you can get

sneaky and follow up. The only question is how...And that is a small limitation. Because while LF gives you the company name and location, it can’t supply a named contact. So when you follow up, you’ve still got some legwork to do before you reach the original searcher.

Then you face problem two: how to start the conversation. Opening with “Ah Mrs Jones, I know you’ve been on my website” is clearly not the answer (unless you want to creep out the said Mrs Jones and face a restraining order). So you have to make the double contact look like pure coincidence!

I doubt there’s a definitive answer to this conundrum, but in tests I’ve run for clients the most successful opener has been “I heard on the grapevine that you’re looking for XYZ”. It’s innocent and vague enough to quash suspicions of stalking, and it gently reminds our Mrs J that she’s seen you somewhere before.

That same approach seems to work well with targeted mailshots as well as telesales. So, to me, (so far) it’s the best way to see the value of Lead Forensics.

So what’s the recommendation?

This is one of those systems that could be the making of your business, or it could just sit there on your desktop, gathering virtual dust. It all depends on you.

If you commit to following up, and do it in a way that doesn’t feel predatory, then yours is the kingdom and all that’s in it. But adopt it on a whim, with no follow-up strategy in place, and you’ll never see the value of some pretty impressive data.

Copywriter James Daniel toys with the best and latest marketing widgets

James Daniel is a Cardiff-based Copywriter, trading as EarthMonkey Media Ltd. His free monthly newsletter Monkey Business is awash with copywriting tips. To register,go to www.earthmonkey.co.uk.

Resources:LEAD FORENSICSwww.leadforensics.com


An Eye for DesignBy Huw Johns

I ‘ve been looking forward to my visit to PDR – the National Centre for Product Design and Research. Today is my second trip to the centre to meet with commercial manager, Julie Stephens. I first met Julie a few months ago on a visit to PDR. I remember being captivated by the array of recreated 3D human skulls that adorn the cabinets around the centre. PDR produces the skulls – and other body parts – from digital files sent over from various hospitals. The 3D medical modelling is the basis for design of plates and other prosthetics that need to be customised to an individual.

But today’s visit isn’t about that side of PDR.

PDR is based within Cardiff Metropolitan University but operates as a stand-alone business, drawing customers from many sectors to reflect its range of offerings. As well as a computer aided design (CAD) unit, PDR has a rapid prototyping (RP) facility, where products can be created in real, physical 3D format from digital files. The centre even boasts a short run production line, so that products can be market-tested in small volumes. All in all, PDR has everything under one roof for anyone needing to bring a product to market. Design it, make a prototype, and then make a few to market-test it. Follow it up with supplier liaison and product implementation – and you’re there.

But that’s not all. And that’s why I’ve come back:

The UCD lab can be dressed as anything from a domestic lounge to a retail outlet, a hospital ward or even a cheese counter!


PDR also has a User Centred Design laboratory (UCD Lab). The lab allows prototypes of products to be tested in use. Users are filmed interacting with the product and observations about their behaviour with the product are made. The process helps manufacturers understand how people interact with products and realise what modifications might be necessary to make it more appealing or easier to use.

The UCD lab can be dressed as anything from a domestic lounge to a retail outlet, a hospital ward or even a cheese counter! PDR does a lot of work with a national baby and children’s products retailer who has recently used the UCD lab to test prototypes of a new baby’s travel system (or pushchair – if you’re over 30).

The UCD Lab is used to create an in-store environment (shop) and a target group of potential users (customers) are given a financial incentive (store vouchers) to participate in the study. In this case the users are all parents with babies. A range of travel systems is displayed, including competitor products, as well as the new product. The user group is encouraged to interact with the products as potential buyers. They are filmed with four 360 degree cameras placed unobtrusively throughout the lab.

Each of the users has to fill out a questionnaire on a laptop in the reception of PDR prior to the study. The data is fed into the audio-visual suite, which monitors the camera and audio feeds from the UCD lab. Any relevant information from the questionnaires is communicated verbally to the moderator overseeing the user group via a two-way radio. It may be that, for example, one user has already bought several of this type of products before and it is useful information for the moderator to know.

Julie tells me that she enjoys moderating and that it’s surprising how honest users will be:

“ I think it’s because they know we are a third party, so it’s not as if we’ve invented the product and will be sensitive to negative comments ”

she explains

“ The negatives usually come out first so you have to encourage positives as well. We’re looking for touch points. Maybe everybody feels the back of a pushchair first to check how padded it is. Or perhaps they lift it up to see how portable it is. Or maybe we’ll spot someone getting frustrated with a small handle. All these have potentially easy fixes in terms of the product design and could greatly affect its marketability. ”

The users are encouraged to place Post It notes on the products indicating their “Best” and “Worst” choices and the qualitative information (their behaviour on film) is fed back to the AV suite continuously.

Frequently the data gathered in the UCD lab is supplemented by user video diaries – another step in the process. When that happens, a smaller group is chosen to participate and each is given a video camera to make a 15 minute film each day of their interaction with the product. The film often provides critical insights that a lab situation cannot. Because the product is being seen “in situ” - at the home - other problems can come to light. A typical one is size: Sometimes what looks reasonable in the lab is disproportionately large in the house. Or maybe the product is just too bulky to store easily. Or perhaps it’s too heavy to lift into the car.

All this vital information is added to the pot of data from the UCD lab. Everything then has to be analysed and translated into useful and proportionate observations. The final report is the result of studying all the audio and visuals from the UCD lab and the user video diaries. The client – in this case the pushchair manufacturer - can then make decisions about amending the product to increase its appeal against its competitors. These are crucial decisions which when scaled up on a national retail platform could have significant financial implications in terms of customer perception and consequent sales of a new product.

The UCD lab is an invaluable tool to any new product developer – whether they are an established manufacturer launching a new line, an investor considering funding a new product, or an inventor seeking funding.

As a marketer, I love the place. It takes the concept of focus group research to another level. Within days of our meeting I am in touch with Julie to talk to her about possible work for a client of mine.

I’m guessing I’ll be back in PDR again before too long!

If you want to know more, please visit the website: www.pdronline.co.uk . And if you come across anyone developing a new product please put them in touch with Julie: [email protected]


Following the Chancellor’s budget in March, a number of Consultation Documents have been published by HMRC regarding proposed legislation which will have an effect on taxation affairs of businesses. Brief details of the consultations are described below:

Patent BoxThe Patent Box provides a reduced rate of Corporation Tax from April 2013 for companies exploiting patented inventions.

The reduced rate applies to a proportion of the profits derived from:

• Licensing or sale of the patent rights;• Sales of the patented invention or products incorporating the patented invention;• Use of the patented invention in the company’s trade; or• Infringement and compensation

The patent box is an optional regime which companies can elect into if they choose. The reduced rate of tax is delivered through an additional deduction in the corporation tax computation. To minimise the compliance burden, PatentBox profits for many claims can be calculated using a largely formulaic approach.

Research & Development Tax CreditA new ‘Above the Line’ Research & Development (R&D) Tax Credit for Companies will be introduced from April 2013. The new tax credit is aimed at increasing R&D investment and providing a more generous R&D incentive for businesses.

The scheme will allow Companies to claim a minimum credit of 9.1% of qualifying R&D expenditure before tax. Loss making companies will be able to claim a payable credit.The difference from previous R&D reliefs is that the new credit will provide a tax deduction based on R&D revenue expenditure and will not be an adjustment to taxable profit, as is currently the case.

Simpler Income Tax for Small BusinessesAt present, all businesses have to use the same rules to calculate their trading profits and, consequently, their tax. HMRC plans to introduce a simplified cash basis for Income Tax for small businesses and simplified arrangements for expenses. The aim is to remove the burden on these smaller businesses and make the calculation of their tax liability easier.

The scheme would be voluntary and be open to most self employed people with trading receipts of up to £30,000. HMRC are also considering extending the scheme to make it available to businesses whose turnover does not exceed £77,000. Companies and property based businesses will not be eligible to be part of the scheme.

Participators in the scheme will be taxed on the basis of the cash that passes through their books and given relief on the simplified expenses which they claim.

Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS)The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) came into effect from 6 April 2012 and will be in effect until April 2017. The scheme provides 50% Income Tax relief on investments of up to £100,000 in small start up companies.

In addition, where a Capital gain is realised in 2012/13 through the sale of any asset, and then reinvested into qualifying SEIS shares, no capital gains tax will be payable, subject to the SEIS investment limits.

Furthermore, when qualifying shares are sold, and have been held for 3 years prior to sale, any gain on the sale of these shares will be free of capital gains tax. Coupled with the income tax relief of 50%, this could provide a potential tax saving of 78% on an SEIS investment.

Corporation Tax Relief for the Creative Sector Tax Reliefs for the video game, animation and high end television industry will be consulted upon to mirror the reliefs currently given to the film industry by way of the film tax credits scheme.

Although these proposals are currently only at a consultation stage, if you think your business might be affected by any of the above, or would like to discuss them further, please contact:

Martin Knight, Tax Manager at BPU Chartered Accountants

Tel: 02920 734100 Email: [email protected]: www.bpuaccountants.co.uk


HR BITESWith JCP SolicitorsClare Bowen is the Head of HR Services at JCP Solicitors and provides HR support to many of the firm’s clients. In this series of articles, Clare breaks down standard HR procedures into small and manageable bite sized pieces of information.

Dealing with Awkward Situations

At some time or another every business owner and manager will need to address an awkward situation in the workplace. Whether you need to deal with an unhygienic employee, a chatterbox, vulgar language or inappropriate dress, a difficult conversation can make the difference between success and failure for a valued employee.

One of the most sensitive issues to address in the workplace is body odour. Even if the employee is not in contact with your customers, leaving their co-workers to tolerate the situation will affect their productivity. To deal with this and other tricky situations, I have put together the following tips:

Call a private meeting with the employee and explain at this meeting that you have some difficult feedback to share.

Use a soft approach, put the employee at ease but avoid small talk. It is important that you get to the point.

Where possible, use an example of a business issue, such as a focus on client care for an employee who dresses inappropriately, or productivity in the case of someone who is talking too much.

Don’t excuse your responsibility. Do not say that you are addressing this as “a number of co-workers have complained”. This heightens embarrassment and harms the recovery of the person receiving the feedback.

To avoid legal situations, establish whether there are any underlying medical problems that may be covered under the Equality Act 2010.

Reach an agreement on what the employee will do to address the situation and what you as a business can do to help.

Set a review date and follow up.

Remember to be sensitive to different cultures that may have different norms and standards.

Most importantly, ensure that no co-worker bullyingor harassment has been taking place.

You owe it to your employees to have these difficult conversations, both for the management of your employees and the productivity of your workforce. It is important that you deal with these situations effectively, efficiently and within the guidelines of the law. In my experience, your employees will appreciate your fairness and honestly.

For more information regarding any HR issues, please contact me, Clare Bowen, on 01792 529603 or email me at [email protected].

Clare Bowen works with clients of JCP Solicitors heading up the Employment Protection Scheme. This scheme provides employers with all the employment documents, policies and procedures required by the law. The scheme also includes unlimited HR and employed advice, backed up by two qualified Employment Solicitors. There is also an additional option of purchasing an insurance product to cove r the business against any potential claims and compensation awards.


Here are some of our new members!

Look out for them at our next events!

Aberavon Beach Hotel

The BEST WESTERN Aberavon Beach Hotel is ideally situated on the Aberavon seafront with two miles of flat promenade to enjoy, as well as the wide sandy Aberavon Blue Flag beach and views across Swansea Bay to the Gower Peninsula.

Just seven miles from the centre of Swansea itself, the hotel is close to Port Talbot and Neath, giving guests ample incentive to get out and about in this lovely part of Wales. From mountain bike trails and hikes to more relaxed strolls along the promenade or beach, the BEST WESTERN Aberavon Beach Hotel offers plenty of opportunity for relaxation, both in its comfortable bedrooms and on its doorstep!

Accent ADC

Graphic design, marketing & website design company

Experience, talent and dedication are the pillars supporting Accent’s exceptionally creative, Swansea based graphic design team. We offer a concept-to-supply facility which ensures quality and value throughout, freeing the client from the hassle of progress chasing across a host of services.

Graphic design is a broad and constantly evolving discipline, demanding trend awareness and knowledge of the opportunities created through technical innovation. Our range of services include logo design, branding, brochures, newsletters and reports, website design, web development & SEO, marketing, illustration, exhibition and packaging design.

If you’re a start-up business raring to go, or an established business in need of an image revamp, Accent ADC can inject new life into your campaign.

http://www.accent-adc.co.uk/

D E S I G N & M A R K E T I N G A G E N C Y

Business Language Services Ltd

Passionate about Language

If you are looking for a reliable, friendly and competitively-priced language service provider, then you’ve come to the right place. We offer a high quality, flexible and personal approach to your language needs.

Since 1990, Business Language Services (BLS) has been helping companies break down language and cultural barriers, and has gained a reputation as one of the UK’s leading language services providers to business and professional people worldwide. Cardiff-based, we view the long-term relationships with our clients as an indication that we are providing the service and quality they require

BLS provides the full range of language services including translation services, certified translation services and interpreting services.

[email protected]


MORE NEW MEMBERS //

Cafe TwoCann, Restaurant and Gif t Shop

Owned and run by Catherine and Dennis Cann, the focus on fresh, well-presented food and excellent service attracts many to the prestigious Swansea waterfront development.

Situated in one of the historic, original dock buildings of SA1, Cafe TwoCann enjoys commanding views across the award winning Sail Bridge and, weather permitting, the al fresco tables make the most of the moving sun.

Open daily, TwoCann’s menu is based around the highest quality food, drawing heavily on local and homemade produce. Specials change daily and the evening menu changes on a monthly basis, to utilise seasonal produce. The restaurant is open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings and booking is recommended.

http://www.cafetwocann.com/

Call Catchers Telephone Answering Service

Your dedicated telephone answering service UK / call answering service staff professionally answer your business calls in your own company name, and we portray that we are sitting right in your office when taking your calls.

We are able to answer questions about your products or services, inform customers of expected delivery dates and times, book clients onto your courses, tell callers when you are likely to call them back after checking your diary, etc, etc. We also offer Diary Management, Order and Payment processing and Box Office Services. Our service is flexible enough to cope with just about any scenario!

http://www.call-catchers.co.uk/

Chemcycle Environmental Management Limited

Chemcycle Environmental Management Limited are a professional recycling and disposal company that offer a wide range of services to offer part or full site environmental management.

We offer total waste management auditing through minimisation, recycling and collection to final disposal.

Chemcycle have extensive experience in the controlled movement of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and other materials, to aid in the relocation of hospital / industrial sites.

We provide independent specialist advice to both the public and private sectors in the UK and overseas, endeavouring to be cost effective and to use RECYCLING methods wherever safely possible.

Chemcycle personnel have a minimum of 10 years experience in the Waste/Environmental industry and a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry.


Cherryblue UK Ltd

Linda Narbeth – Managing Director and Business Development coach for entrepreneurs

Paul Tunster – Clients Service Manager for all IT training solutions

Offering an exciting and innovative approach to getting the best from your people, Cherryblue is one of South Wales’ leading provider of development training, tailored to your individual needs and specialising in the enhancement of your people through coaching, management training, team-building, leadership, change management, IT software and computer skills.

“Why pick Cherryblue? - Because our aim is to help you make your business the pick of the bunch!”

CIOTEK Ltd

CIOTEK Ltd is a business, marketing and management consultancy based in Swansea. Owned and managed by experienced and professional advisors, CIOTEK is able to support new and established businesses in any areas of performance improvement – be that through planning for start/growth, people skills, or reviewing and enhancing a business’ marketing strategy to maximise visibility of their goods/services to their target market.

Chartered Marketers and SFEDI Accredited Business Advisors, directors Chris James and Jayne Smith have developed CIOTEK Ltd into a strong and reputable company, delivering quality advice, guidance and support which not only offer quick-wins and successful solutions to problems, but will ensure sustainability and succession planning for the future – supporting longevity of an organisations success. Approved advisors on behalf of the Welsh Government, many of the support programmes on which they deliver, are full funded and of no cost to the client. We also provide guidance on grant applications. http://ciotek.com

MORE NEW MEMBERS //

Cwmshon Cottages

Welcome to the award winning 5 star luxury Victorian miners cottages, beside the Cwmshon river, 8 miles from Swansea and 10 minutes off the M4. Ideal for exploring the Brecon Beacons, Gower coast and Waterfall Country, they offer welcoming log burners, dedicated walkers’ drying rooms, secure bike stores and free Wi-Fi.

Owners Fiona and Andrew Rickson spent two years restoring and extending the cottages, and began welcoming guests in 2010. A great base for family or friends wanting to visit you, or for a quick romantic break near to home, they are also ideal for accommodating visiting business guests, cheaper than a hotel as they offer a 22% low occupancy discount out of season, with on-line booking and payment facilities.

“Fantastic facilities”; “highest quality accommodation”; “incredible tourist information”; “I have never felt so welcome” are just some of the many great reviews left by guests. For more reviews see Tripadvisor (holiday rentals - Swansea), where Cwmshon Cottages are one of the best rated in South Wales.

www.cwmshoncottageswales.co.uk

Telephone: 01792 865237 / 07960 438961Email: [email protected]


Dor-2-Dor Swansea

Established in 2001 and initially covering just Swansea, our business has grown to include Neath, Port Talbot, Llanelli and nearby areas.

In addition to our accurately targeted leaflet distribution service, we bring the added value of free advice and guidance based on our local knowledge, combined with a professional design and print service. We want to give you the maximum return for your money.

D2D Print, part of the Dor-2-Dor group, supplies all types of quality printed matter and we also produce a wide range of business stationery including business cards, letterheads, compliment slips, NCR sets, books and booklets. Dor-2-Dor is now licensed by Ofcom with a Postcomm licence that permits us to deliver addressed mail. We are currently developing the D2D-Mail service.

MORE NEW MEMBERS //

Eryr Glas

I enable organisations to communicate and connect more effectively, both internally and externally, which then creates more engagement, productivity, profit and happiness.

I adopt an integrated approach to teaching these vital ingredients of communication skills and connectivity:

• Interactivetrainingsandseminars(pre-designedorbespoke)andconsultancy on same• Psychometricprofiling(iMAColourStylesandMBTIPt1)• Coaching(individualandteam)toachievebrillianceandoptimalperformance• Runninggreatvalueandfunteamdayevents(TheEryrGlasRaceway Challenge)

When people and teams connect well and communicate well then cooperation, understanding, communication, trust, collaboration, engagement and profits go up, and stress and tension go down. Groups become teams and teams become high performance teams. People focus on valuing and utilising differences between people, rather than ignoring or misunderstanding them.

People are the lifeblood of your enterprise and the key to your success. We are all on a journey and we all share portions of our journey with others. Let’s make it enjoyable for everyone.

Ffos Las Racecourse

You can find us the heart of Carmarthenshire between the towns of Llanelli and Carmarthen. We are surrounded by rolling hills and countryside and have views down the Gwendraeth Valley to Carmarthen Bay.

The track provides a racing surface to rival any course in the world and has been created level, to provide a superb track to race on and a great viewing track for the racegoer.

If you are planning a wedding or corporate event, Ffos Las Racecourse is a new and exciting venue at which to hold an event. We have great facilities and the Lindley Group at Ffos Las Racecourse have recently won the Stadia Award at the Cost Sector Catering Awards, so you can be guaranteed top class catering and service.

www.ffoslasracecourse.com/


Ethos Training

Anne Derbyshire is the director of Ethos Training which is a part of the Ethos Group, an award winning marketing services agency based in Pontyclun. Ethos offers branding, design for print, websites and mobile phone apps, as well as specialist sales and marketing training.

As business people, one thing we all need is a steady acquisition of new customers (the right customers.) Here are some tips and techniques to help you successfully gain appointments via the telephone to meet with potential clients. Have you ever been in a situation when you know you need to make “those” phone calls? The calls to people you haven’t met before, but who you think you could do business with? Maybe you have some referrals that have been passed your way. There could be some leads you need to follow up from an exhibition or from an email marketing campaign. Or maybe you have drawn up a list of organisations that you would like to connect with.

Telephoning for appointments can be daunting. You don’t like to sound pushy. Rejection is not nice. But making connections via the phone with other business people like yourself to arrange meetings is cost effective, and can be achieved if it’s carried out professionally and in the right way.

MORE NEW MEMBERS //

Faithful + Gould

Faithful+Gould is a world leading consultancy, offering a versatile blend of project management, cost management and sustainability services. We have over 60 years of construction industry experience and focus on looking after clients’ interests when developing major projects in the transport, property and industry sectors.

We have had a presence in South Wales since our Cardiff office opened in 1976. In 2000 we opened our office in Swansea, and from these two strategic bases we are very well placed to provide our services to all areas of the local market.

During the past 35 years, our professional services offering in the South Wales region has continued to grow. We have continued to deliver significant and high profile projects, and have developed strong relationships with key clients in both the public and private sectors.

Faithful+Gould is a member of the Atkins group, one of the world’s leading engineering and design consultancies.

http://www.fgould.com

Fleet Style Distribution Ltd

Our aim is to provide complete satisfaction to our customer’s through effective communication and a quality service to ensure we develop a long term relationship.

Our prime location in South Wales makes us the first choice for companies looking to consolidate their distribution to rural destinations. Our new premises are in the Plasmarl Industrial Estate and provide 1,160m2 of secure warehousing.

Close to junction 45 of the M4 at Swansea, our primary work covers South, West and Mid Wales, including destinations such as St David’s, Aberystwyth and Monmouth. However, we are not just limited to Wales but also offer worldwide coverage.

http://www.fleetstyle.co.uk/home.html


Go 4 It Activities Wales

Here at Go 4 it Activities Wales, we specialise in Gorge Walking and Coasteering. We believe that Wales has some of the most beautiful coastline and countryside in Britain, and these should be used a lot more. We are also firm believers in ‘if you want to do something, you should JUST DO IT !!’ hence the company motto being:“You will learn more in an hour of play than you will in a lifetime of conversation”.

Go 4 It Activities are also specialists in corporate events, getting that fine balance between having fun and team building just right. No matter how big or small your business, people will always work better as a team.

http://go4itactivities.com

MORE NEW MEMBERS //

Gower College Swansea

Gower College Swansea was originally called Swansea College and was founded in 1825. Our principal campus is located in Tycoch. We provide comprehensive library and IT services at all of our major campus locations. The Llwyn y Bryn arts school has top-quality ceramic studios, TV production and recording studios, and darkrooms.

The college also provides professionally graded technical workshops. The Tycoch campus offers a fully-equipped sports and gym facility with squash courts, weight and cardio equipment, and a multi-purpose sports hall. We also have a full holistic therapy facility at the Broadway Centre on Tycoch campus. The centre offers services to students and the public as well as vocational training for students pursuing relevant degrees.

www.gowercollegeswansea.ac.uk

Inspiration Gif ts

A new Round Robin member from March, at Inspiration we specialise in providing innovative marketing solutions with a fresh, flexible and unrestricted approach.

We deliver an intelligent mix of services covering key sectors: Promotional Items, China, Printed Glassware, Graphic & Website Design, Print and Exhibitions. Each of these are operated as individual entities but will achieve the best results when working together to complement each other.

We are dedicated to offering bespoke solutions tailored to your individual needs and budget. We can do this due to our depth of experience, dynamic consultancy, marketing knowledge and creative design abilities.

Inspiration Limited is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of printed glassware.Services include; sourcing and supply of promotional gifts, printing on glassware and ceramic-ware, corporate identity and logo design, supply of printed material, stationery, brochures and posters, exhibition displays supply and design.

http://www.inspiration-gifts.com/index.html

Inspiration ltd – Nicola john

[email protected]


John Edwards Funeral Directors Ltd

We are a caring, family-owned independent funeral services company, and we have served the community in Swansea for over 60 years. Our aim is to meet the unique needs of each funeral and to help celebrate the life of the deceased in a way that matches their character and personality. We conduct funerals across South Wales and can also arrange international repatriation.

• Weofferacomprehensiverangeofbothtraditionalandcontemporary funerals, religious and non-religious, overseen by a qualified lady funeral director, Sian Martin.

• Wecanarrangeenvironmentallyfriendlyburials(orgreenburials),bespoke funerals, tailored to your specific requirements and even “No Frills” Funerals, simple, basic, dignified, but low cost.

Contact Alan James on 01792 771232

http://www.john-edwards-funerals.co.uk/

MORE NEW MEMBERS //

Liber ty Stadium, Swansea

The Liberty Stadium opened in 2005 to provide a home to Swansea City AFC and Ospreys Rugby whilst giving Swansea a facility to be proud of. We are Swansea’s premier venue for conference and events in South West Wales.

Our variety of function suites can accommodate meetings, lunches and dinners from 8 to 610. With 12 suites and 29 Executive Boxes, event organisers have the flexibility to hold any event that will be remembered for a long time. Craig Money 08712 223 224 http://www.liberty-stadium.com/

Contact Mark Bugler or Clare Parker on 02920 485181

Oceana

This unique ‘multi award winning’ £6million leisure complex has totally transformed Swansea’s social scene. Boasting five themed bars, two clubrooms, luxurious VIP facilities and a restaurant, styled to reflect iconic cities from around the world, it can accommodate over 3000 customers, making it the largest club capacity in the country.

With state of the art video screens, lighting, technical support and disabled facilities, at Oceana you’ll find everything you could possibly need for a successful event. Whether you are planning a conference, exhibition, hospitality event, product launch, fashion show, awards dinner, boxing event, charity fund-raiser or just throwing a party, Oceana is the ultimate destination.

http://www.oceanaclubs.com/swansea


Orbits

Original Business IT Solutions, otherwise known as Orbits (see what we did there?!), are a small but efficient IT Solutions provider to businesses, charities and the public sector in South Wales and beyond.

Think of Orbits as like having your own IT department. Our friendly staff are here to remove the usual IT stresses from your business. Providing a technical helpdesk, qualified engineers and an experienced management team, at Orbits we pride ourselves on going the extra mile without charging the earth.

With support on a PC from just £9 a month, competitive project rates and no delivery or installation charges on equipment, you can see why we’re rapidly becoming South Wales’ premier IT provider. Clients include: Hawthorn Accountancy, Swansea Care and Repair, Age Cymru Swansea Bay, Vale Volunteer Bureau, Welsh Tenants Federation, Solutions Recruitment Ltd and many more.

Contact Jim Lewington on 02920 003 313

MORE NEW MEMBERS //

Redkite Law

QualitySolicitors Redkite is part of a national network of law firms. Working with individuals and businesses in Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, QualitySolicitors Redkite is there for whatever your life brings.

Our first consultation is free and you can always talk directly with your lawyer. Have a question? It is never an inconvenience - we promise to respond the same day. When we do, we’ll only use plain English, not legal jargon you won’t easily understand. And after you ask us to start working with you, we promise no nasty surprises, like an unexpected bill.

Everything we do is accountable and transparent.

http://www.qualitysolicitors.com/redkite

TO SEE WHO HAS RENEWED THEIR MEMBERSHIP...

TURN TO PAGE 36-37


Rees Marketing

I am a versatile, creative marketing and communications professional with considerable experience gained in the private, public and charity sectors in Paris, London and South Wales. At the end of 2011, I set up my own business with a small but beautifully formed portfolio of clients. I specialise in no-nonsense practical advice to help make your business more profitable and I particularly enjoy working with small businesses with little or no marketing expertise, where I can add significant value.

In our first meeting I find out as much as possible about your business, I’ll do some further research and consider areas that could be improved, come back to you with my proposal and together we can decide how to take it forward.

So if you need some advice on how to make your business more visible, or a complete overhaul of how you market your products or services, get in touch!

www.reesmarketing.co.uk07866 [email protected]

MORE NEW MEMBERS //

South Wales Web Solutions

We create, design and build websites for all types of businesses throughout South Wales and offer a complete range of ecommerce solutions and digital marketing to our clients. Our websites are designed to suite our clients’ needs and create the desired impact.

Did you know that if your website is not in the top listings of the search engines you could be potentially losing over 75% of your total online market? Optimizing your website is a must if you are relying on being found on the internet.

Our services include:Website DesignSearch Engine OptimizationDigital MarketingEmail Marketing

Social Media Training e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Linked In etc...

“No Contracts, No Hassle, No Hidden Extras! - Just friendly, professional service!”

http://www.southwaleswebsolutions.co.uk/

Spring Creative Design

Based in South Wales, we work with small to medium sized businesses to create innovative and effective design solutions. From business cards to corporate brochures, we offer the full range of graphic design services that will capture the personality of your business. We can also recommend local printing companies to ensure that we can find you the most competitive printing costs.

Spring Creative Design is the complete one-stop solution to all your business needs. Feel free to contact us - we’d be pleased to discuss your ideas with you.

...for fresh ideas think of Spring - Creative Design

http://www.springcreative.co.uk/


Sytner

We know that the needs of BMW & Mini drivers are highly specialised and individual. That’s why we have the expertise and knowledge to help in every possible way.

Our commitment to you is to maintain the highest possible dealership standards at all times, whether you are searching for a new or Approved Used BMW or Mini, or are an existing owner. So, if professional excellence matters to you, come and talk to the local experts.

www.sytnercardiffbmw.co.uk/

MORE NEW MEMBERS //

That Printing Company

We are a web based organisation and therefore have minimal overheads so that we can pass the savings back to you, our customers. Our mission is to provide quality printed material to businesses, keeping the ordering system as simple as possible and the pricing structure transparent. We want to provide you with the best quality materials and the best quality of service possible.

At That Printing Company we are proud to be able to offer print products that are beautiful and affordable; so take a look at our samples and you will see that quality is at the heart of everything we do.

Contact Matt Pugh on 08455 197 173http://www.thatprintingcompany.com/

The Improvement Consultancy

All of life’s dreams start as a vision, and we all know that achieving them takes commitment and motivation, and a plan of action. This is true for you as an individual, and also for your business. Of course there is more to it that that, and at times you will need to dig deep, look for motivation and courage, and renew your enthusiasm.

At the Improvement Consultancy we provide one-to-one coaching packages and support so that you and your business succeed. An external person can give you new perspectives, help to clarify thinking and keep you on track. This means a happier and more productive you!

Michaela has 20 years’ experience as a management consultant, coach and trainer. She has helped management teams develop strategies for growth; directors to achieve the work life balance they want; teams to become great service providers; and managers to become confident and well rounded leaders.

For a free introductory session call Michaela on 07779754779 www.theimprovementconsultancy.co.uk

Utility Warehouse - Caroline Coulson

Save money or make money with The Utility Warehouse! I can show you how to make great savings on your household and business utilities. I can also introduce you to an opportunity to make a second income, simply by helping your friends and family to save money.

Ask me for more information.Catherine Coulson - Authorised DistributorThe Utility Warehouse Discount Club, Swansea, Tel 0800 093 7613


Andy Wilkins

Oxford FC have a pleasant ground mainly notable for the fact that there were stands on three sides only. It looked like the club ran out of cash before they could build a fourth stand behind one of the goals.

While thinking about how I would approach this article, it dawned on me that “the road” started and ended with another activity that is very close to my heart, or rather, stomach.

On Wednesday 10th August last year Martin, Phil and I travelled to Oxford United to see Cardiff City’s first game in the season’s Carling Cup competition. We last went to Oxford about 40 years ago to their former ground, which has long since been bulldozed away. They now play at one of the first of the modern breed of all-seater stadia, the Cassam Stadium.

As well as the unusual benefit of a free car park, a new leisure complex had opened within 100 metres or so of the ground about a week or so before we visited. After a two hour drive we were a bit peckish so visited the complex, which included four new restaurants. The All You Can Eat Indian Buffet caught our eye, particularly at the opening offer price of £8 each. Needless to say we rose to their challenge, scoffed as much as we could, with a few beers to wash it down, and then waddled our way into the stadium.

In February, after the Wembley final, we wended our way back to Ealing Broadway to pick up the car and decided we needed some sustenance for the three hour journey home. We sought out the better looking of the local Indian restaurants, The Clay Oven, and enjoyed a very good meal – albeit somewhat more expensive than the Oxford buffet.

So, unintentionally, our journey from August to February started and ended with a belly full of Indian food.

Oxford FC have a pleasant ground mainly notable for the fact that there were stands on three sides only. It looked like the builders/club ran out of cash before they could build a fourth stand behind one of the goals. As a result whenever the ball flew over the crossbar during the pre-match

warm up or during the game, its trajectory took it into the car park. This happened four times in all and on each occasion a gang of local urchins appeared, grabbed the ball (club security were too slow to stop them) and disappeared into the night. Either the youngsters are keen footballers themselves, or they do a roaring trade in slightly used footballs at local car boot sales.

The game itself was notable for Oxford scoring first, us equalising and then winning the game with two goals in extra time, the last point being a bit of a recurring feature throughout our run.

In the next round we faced First Division Huddersfield at our ground. Again we came from behind and managed to equalise at 3 – 3 in the last minute of the game, going on to win 5 – 3 in extra time.

We faced our old foes Leicester next at home, drawing 2 – 2 in 90 minutes. Guess what, extra time again and still 2 – 2 after 120 minutes! On to penalties. We and Leicester have some history in penalties, having beaten them on pens to get to the Championship Play-Off Final two years ago. Thankfully, we did them again and awaited news of our next opponents.

Next up was Burnley, again at our place. We were now starting to think we were getting a bit of the “rub of the green”, another home draw against a club at our level whom we felt we should beat. This we managed 1 – 0, shock, horror, in normal time and without penalties. While only winning by one goal, it was a fairly easy game, but with the Burnley team looking and behaving like eleven all in wrestlers, the main aim for our players was to avoid injury. It was surprising that only one of the opposition went for an early bath. To be continued.

EYE ON THE BALL


Andy Wilkins

Slice the potatoes and leeks thinly and layer in oven proof dish along with the diced ham and shredded cabbage. Season each layer as you go along.

Add the garlic to the stock and pour over.

Sprinkle cheese over top and loosely cover with foil. (Make sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese or it will stick).

Bake in oven 190degs or gas mark 5 for 30-40 mins.

Then remove foil and bake for a further 25 mins.

This is a super slimming world recipe that makes so much pie, I was able to freeze 6 portions and the whole recipe cost me a fiver to make!!

Recipe By:Linda HarryThe Business Network

Recipe

Method

600g potatoes2 leeks200g cabbage10 ml chicken stock(just enough stock is needed

to wet the ingredients)

2/3 garlic cloves110g reduced fat cheese400g diced hamSalt & Pepper to taste

Ingredients

Cheesy Ham & Potato Hash


FILM REVIEW By Joanne Popham - Handshake’s Resident Film Critic

Since the last addition of The Handshake there have been some good films released, I went to see three; This Means War, Safe House and Mirror Mirror, all very different and all good for their own reasons.

An intense thriller where you are constantly guessing who the villain really is! At first the film plot was slightly confusing…..what exactly is a ‘Safe House’ and what does the ‘House Keeper’ really do? Well, you will have to watch the film to gain the answers as I cannot possibly explain here. However, what I can say is that Ryan Reynolds who plays the ‘House Keeper’ does it well and keeps you gripped to the seat wondering if he will do the right thing…..have I got you in suspense?!!! Denzil Washington, a CIA agent turned criminal, is brought to The Safe House for questioning by the CIA who suspects he has some vital information.

However, someone else wants what the CIA believes Denzil has and comes to The Safe House for him. A fight breaks out and Ryan is left on his own with Denzil in the Safe House and here the film begins. Does Ryan bring Denzil to the CIA?????? It is intriguing, intense, thrilling and definitely a film you should go and see if you enjoy thrillers. The critics gave Safe House

very poor reviews, one saying, ‘Though Safe House is anchored by strong performances from Washington and Reynolds, they’re let down by a thin script and choppily edited action sequences that betray the film’s unfortunate lack of imagination.” Hmmm, not sure if they watched the same film as me, I found it difficult to find a good review and then The Los Angeles Times came up trumps and captured my thoughts, saying the film “shows how much can be done with a business-as-usual CIA-thriller script when it’s bolstered by effective acting and expert direction. Denzil has developed a special knack for dark-side portrayals that bring intensity and flair to films like Training Day, and American Gangster. The writer has brought an unmistakably stylish and unsettling tone to Safe House, keeping audiences off-balance and wondering when they’ll get a chance to catch their next breath.” So true for me!

What is there not to love about a Brother’s Grimm Fairy Tale? I cannot wait to see what the critics say. Let me guess: ’Julia Roberts picked her worst film ever and Phil Collins’ daughter Lily was the best attribute the film had!’ Or is that what I secretly thought!! As you guessed, or as you may know, Mirror Mirror is a comedic adaptation of Snow White. Julia Roberts plays the wicked Step Mother with the fun and humour you could hope for and Lily Collins plays the ever so sweet Snow White very well. The humour and fun in this film make it great watching for all the family. The scenery, costumes, fun and humour are watchable over and over again. My only negative comment would be that I would love to have seen this released at Christmas. Therefore hopefully it will be on this Christmas. If you have ever seen the ‘Princess Bride’ and loved it, then you will love Mirror Mirror.

As I guessed, the Guardian states ‘Julia Roberts is not properly funny or a satisfying villain’, though I beg to differ, and they said, ‘Lily Collins did her best with a dull role, and the film sleepwalks along confidently enough in its numb, semi-unfunny, semi-unserious way’. However, thankfully The Telegraph gave the film four stars describing it as “an exuberantly charming fairy story’; it radiates gorgeousness and good humour with a near-nuclear intensity.” Now that’s more like it!

If you are in the supermarket on a Friday night and want a film to watch, any one of these three would be good viewing depending of course whether you like Rom-Com’s, Comedic Fairy Tales and/or a Thriller. For those of you who had hoped I had reviewed ‘The Woman in Black’, I apologise. Unfortunately, thriller-horror is not my thing but I have heard that it is good, very eerie and chilling! Happy film watching, all!

Mirror MirrorSafe House

Ok I wouldn’t say that this was the best film out of the three but for the laughs, male eye candy and romance I would give it 3.5 out of 5 and would definitely watch it again. The plot: Two CIA Agents and best friends become tied up in a love triangle when Reese Witherspoon goes on a first date with Tom Hardy. After leaving him she bumps into his best friend Chris Pine and agrees unwillingly to give him one date. When the two friends realise that they are dating the same girl they decide not to tell her and it’s game on! May the best man win……..and of course while this is going on there is a CIA project that comes back to haunt them! Reese Witherspoon was her general lovely self and didn’t have to try too hard, but the men in this film, the very British Tom Hardy and Chris Pine were hysterical, manly and just drop dead gorgeous! As Betsy Sharkey of the Los Angeles Times said, there “is some bittersweet fun peppered by bursts of sharp patter, especially from Hardy and Pine, who electrified the screen almost any time they’re sharing it’’- They certainly did that for me!

This Means War


Hi everyone and welcome to the Tony on Tech column!

Over the forthcoming issues I will be reviewing some of the latest and greatest gadgets as they are announced for 2012.

This week we look at the new iPad 3

iPad Rules…for now?

So the new iPad3 is here. Was it a stroke of genius or simply an upgrade?

The third generation of the iPad looks almost exactly the same as previous incarnations but, to be fair to the new iPad, it brings a massive upgrade. The 2048 x 1536 pixel Retina display has four times the resolution of the previous model.

Apple did well to make sure the monstrous screen is well covered in terms of graphic processing with some extra GPU cores too, and the performance is flawless. The 5MP camera is an improved version of the one on the iPhone4 and the video recording is duly upgraded to 1080p.

The bar is set for the competition to try and match it. Some say it’s a leap worth several generations but I am not convinced. Samsung have now become the largest Smartphone manufacturer and their sights will be firmly fixed on owning the tablet market too, especially with their expertise in screen technology.

Another player low on the radar to look out for is…Nokia. Yes the Finnish giant who signed a

strategic alliance with Microsoft last year is working hard behind the scenes on a Windows 8 tablet running a dual core processor which, it is believed, will see the light of day later this year.

You might ask, ‘So what, with Nokia’s Windows Phone market share not even in double digits‘.

Windows Phone, however, has won praise and there seems to be momentum. With more than a billion Microsoft Windows/Office users around the world and the potential of familiar software and seamless use between

PC, Tablet and Smartphone, that has got to be a very inviting recipe for businesses, both large and small.

So iPad is the king, certainly for now, and while upgrades have their use and are ok if not over played, complacency is a dangerous game in technology. Nokia learned the hard way but are now learning fast!

See you next time!


Sickies are expected to rise by up to 20%. The focus will be on the Olympics, but major football events such as the European Championships also tend to cause headache-induced sickies and issues around people wanting to watch, celebrate or commiserate their country’s participation.

The HR Dept-SE Wales director Liza comments, “Where there have been major sporting events in the past, we have tended to see more calls to our advice line about employees not showing up to work the next day after a particularly good or bad result. The rise of video streaming and social media also means that there are more opportunities for workers to sneak a look at games or results when they should be working. Communicating your expectations to all staff straight away is really important.”

Employers need to get to grips with managing holiday requests, setting out how unauthorised absences and misusing the internet at work to live stream the games will be dealt with. So that employees are not left snowed under, consider how many employees can have time off at the same time. Employers are likely to have an abundance of requests for particular dates, so considering how these will be managed is crucial.

No one can ignore the widespread interest in the impending events. Here are some tips for employers dealing with absence problems during this period:

• Useyournormalholidayprocedureswhendealingwith requests for time off.

• Befairandconsistenttoeveryone.

• Makecleartheconsequencesifsomeonedoespulla sickie.

• HaveaclearITpolicywhichcoversallaspectsofinternet usage during working hours.

• Respectthatnoteveryoneisinterestedinsporting events.

• Respectnoteveryonewillsupportthesameteams.

Last year businesses had to deal with workplace absence that cost a staggering £17 billion, and £2.7 billion of this was thanks to employees pulling ‘sickies’. This year, employers will get a double helping of problems as a result of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations and the unusual sporting season.

Work Place Sickies


For the uninitiated, speed dating originated in Los Angeles in the 1990s. The idea is that about twenty five men and the same number of women have a series of three minute mini-dates with someone of the opposite sex. First impressions count and this kind of dating means less time wasted on nights out with incompatibles and more time spent meeting more potential partners in bite-size encounters.

Potentially embarrassing situations are avoided as there is a discreet process to follow. After the three minute date, you mark a card to indicate your compatibility. Not interested? Then your tick box options include “friendship” and “no match”. Fancy some more? Then it’s “match”. The dating agency collates the cards and passes on mutual matches to the daters so they can arrange to meet.

Jayne set up Spark Dating for one reason only: To have experience of setting up and running a business. An economics graduate with an MA in marketing, Jayne’s early working life was spent learning the ropes at her cousin’s management consultancy CIOTEK. Cousin Chris James happened to be looking for a graduate to assist with the range of Welsh Government business support projects, and Jayne fitted the bill perfectly.

“Initially my role was quite admin-based, but I got more and more involved in the business side of things. Chris is an experienced business advisor and I learned a lot from him. I started to get more involved on the strategic side but it bothered me that I had never run my own business. So I decided to take the plunge with Spark Dating. I was looking for something that had low start-up costs, low competition and something I could do in the evening so as not to interrupt my working day. Swansea was crying out for speed dating, and I’d seen

it work in Bristol for some of my friends, so it was natural choice,” said Jayne.

Spark became successful quickly, attracting good numbers of daters across the spectrum in various age-banded groups. The company has been responsible for four weddings, including Jayne’s own! That’s right – Jayne met her husband accidentally at a speed dating event she was running. Six years later – happily married - Social Media expert Paul now helps Jayne run the events, which are soon to branch out into East Wales and possibly further. Quickies: Each date lasts 3 minutes

In 2006 Jayne became a business mentor in her own right, with a contract from Venture Wales. Soon afterwards, she became a director of CIOTEK and now manages its range of services alongside cousin Chris. CIOTEK has a number of Welsh Government contracts that allows them to provide free of charge or part-funded support to certain businesses. As well as HR support, the company can provide strategic guidance, signposting to funding, help with funding for training as well as assistance in a number of specialist areas. Their close links with the Welsh Government means that they are frequently a good first port of call in terms of what support a business maybe eligible for – so talk to Jayne…

If you want to talk business, email [email protected]. If it’s a date you’re after, it’s [email protected].

Jayne Smith is best known as being one half of management consultancy CIOTEK, but by night, the 31 year old runs Spark - Swansea’s only speed dating company…

A DatewithJayne

By Huw Johns


Town and Country Catering headed by Stephen Banks and team were delighted to cater for

HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh on their recent Diamond Jubilee tour of Wales at the Orangery, Margam on 26th April 2012

150 invited guests, including AMs, councillors, celebrities and the Grand Slam winning team, enjoyed a canapé reception with Laurent Perrier Champagne followed by

a Sewin and Smoked Salmon mousse served with a tomato and sweet pepper chutney

Cannon of Welsh Lamb Served with a fondant potato, a quenelle of mint pea puree and finished with red wine reduction jus

Coffee or Tea, served with Merlyn Liqueur Fudge and miniature Welsh Cakes

Ty Nant Water

Town and Country Catering was established in 1992 and is run by Stephen Banks, director of the prestigious 4 star Best Western Plus New House Country Hotel in Cardiff

Stephen Banks commented, ‘The team and I feel privileged to have been appointed as the caterers for the this prestigious event. As part of the Town and Country Hotels group, we have over 20 years of experience and have catered for many different types of event. This one, however, has been the pinnacle of all our hard work.’

Town and Country Catering –appointed to serve lunch for the Queen

Hat Trick For Swansea Letting Agent

McCartan Lettings has won an award at the prestigious Estate & Letting Agent Awards

sponsored by ZOOPLA.CO.UK in association with

HomeLet, Endsleigh, Expert Agent, LCA Recruitment & RICS

The Swansea- based agency who received their third Bronze Award for Wales was recognised again for its excellent customer service, as voted for by their clients during the course of 2011.

The award was announced by Phil Spencer, the TV property expert at a lavish luncheon and ceremony at the Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, London, which was attended by 550 of the UK’s top estate and letting agents.

Phil Spencer said, “The ESTAS are the most important and valuable awards in our industry. An ESTA is not an easy

accolade to pick up, and to win one requires a lot of hard work, over a very long period of time.”

Simon Brown, owner of the awards, added, “Agents that take part in the ESTAS believe passionately in providing the highest quality of customer service. They are prepared to go that extra mile, prepared to take criticism as well as praise, and prepared to invest in and develop their businesses accordingly”.

The results of the competition were determined by research carried out amongst customers who were asked a series of questions about the service they have received from their agent. Over 33,000 votes were received making it the biggest consumer survey of its kind in the property industry.delighted to support and be part of this key industry event”.

Director, Hannah McCartan with Phil Spencer and Senior Negotiator, James White at the awards in London


As you may know The Desk Den based in Swansea provides home workers with a desk to work from, on a pay-as-you go basis. There are other services on offer too, that will benefit any start-up, SME or mobile professional to develop their business. Check out our website for a full range of benefits www.thedeskden.co.uk.

We are inviting you to take part in a survey to win a month’s FREE membership! All you need to do is take 5 minutes of your time to complete the survey. Copy and paste the following link

into your internet browser, and complete the survey before the end of June, to win a month’s FREE membership at The Den

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2ZTR8VG

You have nothing to lose but you do have a chance to win a month’s membership AND the opportunity to grow your business! Winner announced on Friday 29th June!

The Desk DenNEWS

Director Hannah McCartan says,

“Everyone here at McCartan Lettings is absolutely delighted to have won an award at the ESTAS for the third year in a row. The awards mean so such to us because it’s our clients who have rated us, not a judging panel. We pride ourselves on high levels of customer service and, as this award shows, we must be getting it right! ”

The ESTAS are sponsored by Zoopla.co.uk, the property search website. Jon Notley, Commercial Director said,

“The ESTAS are about consumers; consumers who have recognised agents for the high standard of customer service that they provide. This is exactly why Zoopla is involved with the ESTAs for the second year running, and we are delighted to support and be part of this key industry event”.

One Day Memory Workshop – 28th June by Bryan Gunton

DATE: 28th June 2012VENUE: Court Colman Manor, Bridgend, CF31 4NG Who should attend?This course is suitable for all levels of personnel within an organization who are trying to cope with ever-increasing amounts of information at work; includes managers and leaders in private and public sectors through to qualified professionals and technical experts. This course is suitable for individuals who would benefit from an improved ability to remember facts, figures, names, faces, organisational issues, current trends, plans, theories, ideas and any information that assists efficiency, learning, development and management. It also helps anyone looking for a management development programme,

offering practical skills to manage the activities that take up time, and individuals taking professional qualifications and studies.

The workshop is £145 for the full day which includes a 2-course lunch and networking with Bridgend Business Network. There is a discount of 10% off the total cost for all members of The Business Network.

Bryan Gunton

Tel: +44 (0)1446 500221Mob: +44 (0)7843 [email protected]


exhibition

THE BUSINESS NETWORK

B2B3rd May 2012@ Parc-Y-Scarlets, LlanelliEXHIBITION

Photography courtesy of Liam Reardon, photographs of


Photography courtesy of Liam Reardon, photographs of


Awaken Life Coaching

Do you know in your heart you’re not living life to its full potential?

Then the opportunity to change your life, your business or where you work is right here.

If you have the desire and the vision, together we can make your dreams a reality.

Awaken works on a one-to-one or group basis, as well as through workshops and seminars which can be tailor made for your company.

Beverley also undertakes Speaker Slots, where her Inspirational and Motivational talks will enable people to understand how Positive Thinking and Visualisation would enable them to live the life they desire.

Awaken – lighting your journey ahead!

BPU Accountants

BPU provide a specialised service to all our clients, whether they are private or public sector firms, sole traders or larger limited companies. Our partner-led approach allocates a partner to every client with the support of a qualified manager.

BPU staff are the cornerstone of our success and a key factor in the delivery of the right advice in a timely and cost-effective manner. We are an experienced chartered accountancy firm based in Cardiff, Wales.

We endeavour to provide our clients with a first-class service - helping our business clients to achieve greater profitability, and our individual clients to enjoy greater wealth.

http://www.bpuaccountants.co.uk/index.htm

Business in Focus

Delivering the Welsh Government business start up programme, Business in Focus has been helping businesses in South Wales start up and grow for over 25 years. Our team of advisers is skilled in helping new business people get their ideas off the ground and once trading to support them with realistic and practical advice. On behalf of the Welsh Government, Business in Focus also offers a comprehensive range of business skills training courses. Many of the services offered are free,

thanks to the Welsh Government Business Support contracts and the Welsh Government Regional Centre Service.

We also offer a comprehensive range of high quality business consultancy services covering areas such as marketing, HR, ISO certifications, and digital marketing support.

http://www.businessinfocus.co.uk/en/home.aspx

The Desk Den

We offer a unique and affordable business solution with a desk at our professional co-working community which has a wide range of facilities at our Swansea base.

Working from home brings you the kind of freedom many workers can only dream of. You get to control your timetable and decide when, how and where you work. You answer only to yourself and your clients. It can, however be an isolating experience and may blur the boundaries of everyday life.

Co-working is a concept that brings self-employed people together to work, and while online social networking is bridging geographical gaps, co-working bridges the gap between working in a coffee shop and taking on the commitment of an office lease. It also encourages face to face networking as a useful way to do business.

http://www.thedeskden.co.uk/

The Dragon Innovation Par tnership

The Dragon Innovation Partnership has renewed its membership of the Business Network. The project is a collaboration between Swansea Metropolitan University, Swansea University, and Trinity University College, that aims to maximise opportunities for transferring knowledge and expertise between the universities and external companies and organisations.

Using the partnership, you can reach relevant experts from the universities and discuss your development, support and learning needs.

Want to grow your business? Develop your staff? Work on a specific problem? Get technical advice? Enhance your community?

Visit http://www.dragonip.ac.uk/ value to our business.

Ef fective HRM

Emma del Torto and Gemma Davies have recently joined forces to form Effective HRM offering a comprehensive range of human resources and employment law services in new offices just off the M4 at junction 34.

They are experienced HR experts, providing advice and project work for businesses, including recruitment, training and redundancies. A real growth area of their business is in the provision of the outsourced HR department and providing an interim HR Director service.

The range of work ranges from keeping businesses compliant with employment contracts, policies and procedures, to ensuring that those policies and procedures are correctly carried out. Check out the website for more information www.effective-hrm.co.uk or give Emma and Gemma a call on 0844 873 2297.

Gwent Hospitals Contributory Fund

Gwent Hospitals Contributory Fund provides excellent value cash health plans for employees and individuals. They have been a Business Network member since 2009 and provide their invaluable schemes to many of our members.

They have recently renewed their membership and upgraded to a round robin as from March 1st so look out for them at all our events.

Andy [email protected]


Hawthorn Accountancy and Of fice Solutions

At Hawthorn Accountancy and Office Solutions we are a friendly bunch and have the most fantastically rewarding job. We give our clients (our friends!) their lives back and take away their workload burden by doing their often time consuming and stressful office jobs for them. By outsourcing their accounting and administrative requirements to Hawthorn Accountancy and Office Solutions, they get to do what they do well and focus on developing their business, while we get to do what we do best!

Our team of expert and confidential accountants can take your financial burdens away with a full spectrum of professional accounting services.

Take advantage of the comprehensive bookkeeping service offered by Hawthorn Accountancy Services so that you will be able to focus on the more important things like running and growing your business. Our services include:

• Sales / Purchase / Nominal ledger processing • Invoicing • VAT returns• Expenses• Credit control management • Accounts preparation • Management reporting

JCP Solicitors

With offices in Swansea, Whitland, Fishguard and St David’s, JCP Solicitors are on hand to offer friendly and expert legal advice. We are large enough to be expert in what we do, but small enough to ensure you receive personal and expert service.

Our people are specialists at what they do. So if you need conveyancing, an accident or injury Solicitor, business law advice, employment law information, wills and probate, family law or advice on agriculture, rest assured that our people are the understanding experts you require.

We recognise that, while excellence in legal work is our core function, this must be accompanied and supported by the highest standard of professional conduct and client care. JCP – approachable, professional legal assistance.

Natalie Reynolds

Social Media is fast becoming the most effective way to communicate with your customers, both new and existing!

Many businesses across the UK and worldwide are embracing Social Media as part of their Marketing Strategies to boost brand awareness and sales. As the Social Media ‘World’ can be a daunting to those who have not ventured into it.

I provide ‘Coaching Sessions’ and Workshops as an efficient and effective way to introduce Social Media to your business and provide you the skills and knowledge you need to move forward and show businesses how to utilise Social Media sites as a marketing tool.

http://natspages.blogspot.co.uk/p/about-me.html

SLR Creations

Let’s face it.... every website needs video!

Online marketing experts agree: adding a video to your website will increase your response rate by 40% or more.

And the chances are, that’s a boost you don’t want to ignore. Especially if you’ve looked at your web stats, and seen how many visitors leave without buying from you.

To achieve great results it can be a hassle. It takes equipment and technical know-how, as well as some effort. So we’re on a mission to make it easier.

We’ve been working with Lynne and the Business Network to run filming events, where we set up a mobile studio: lights, camera, green screen, the whole shebang. Each business gets a filming slot, which is your chance to get on camera, read your script from an autocue and share your message with the waiting world.

And it doesn’t cost you the earth…

Bringing people together on one day creates an economy of scale, so we can keep the expenses to a minimum.Your video will only cost you £99, which includes professional editing, with your choice of background or logo.

For dates and details of the next event, take a look at the web site

www.video4business.tv or ring Andy on 01656 650249 / 07515 353224

Alison Watermeyer Distributor Utility Warehouse Discount Club

What a year with Business Network…… I always look forward to the lunches as an opportunity to share ideas with, challenge and support the other members. As people do business with people they know, like and trust, it has opened so many doors for me that would otherwise have remained shut.

There are two sides to the business: I offer to genuinely reduce domestic and business utility bills (coupled with outstanding customer service and convenience). The majority of services are provided with no minimum contract terms and have been recommended by a leading consumer magazine (I’m not allowed to say Which one!!!). This is the saving side of the business.

There is also a Making Money side to it. Richard Branson explained recently the need for multiple streams of income to spread the financial risk both on a domestic and business level. Individuals and businesses, simply by recommending Utility Warehouse to their own contacts, are adding a ‘value added service’ to their existing clients and they can enjoy a residual income from this.

I have enjoyed working with such positive people and so I did not hesitate to renew my membership of The Business Network. My goals for this year will be to continue to grow the team (I’m always looking for new, focused and dynamic team members!) and to support them in their own quest for success, to help businesses and individuals (most business owners have a home to go to!) who would like to reduce their costs, and to meet new and inspiring people, learn loads and have FUN!!!!!


JULY

The Business NetworkDIARY DATES

AUGUST SEPTEMBER

JUNE


DECEMBER

OCTOBER NOVEMBER

The Business NetworkDIARY DATES


All enquiries:

[email protected]

01639 793580

The Handshake is the official magazine of The Business Network and is published electronically quarterly. Copies are sent to all Business Network members and other selected individuals within the business community.

Issue 14

E-BOOK DESIGN, CREATION & HOSTING BY

Like what you see? Want to talk about afuture design project?

Contact Gwilym on: [email protected]

GREAT DESIGN WILL SAVE THE WORLD!